In Medicare Part D, generic drug utilization increased from 72 percent to 90 percent between 2009 and 2018.
Still, not all older adults are seeing generic drug-related savings.
This fact sheet reviews some potential barriers that older adults face when accessing generic drugs.
Generic Substitution
All generic drugs reach consumers through substitution, whether by a provider or a pharmacist.
Recognizing a Generic Drugs Name
Another potential challenge is patients ability to identify their drugs by name.
Yet, identifying a drug by name may be challenging.
Part of the challenge may be the generic names.
These limitations can compound the challenges older adults face when understanding and using generic drugs.
Consumer awareness of biosimilars has evolved slowly.
Virginia Voters Are Concerned About Drug Affordability
Prescription drug affordability is a concern for many Virginia voters.
They call for a Prescription Drug Affordability Board to address the issue.
